I'm trying to breathe new life into my old HP 6560b laptop from 2011. I've upgraded it with a new 128GB SSD and 8GB of RAM, and I've also updated the BIOS. However, every time I try to install Linux (either Ubuntu or Linux Mint) from a USB, I get a persistent "Boot device not found" error after installation. It's odd because Windows 10 installs and boots without any issues. This laptop uses a legacy BIOS, and I've tried creating the bootable USB using Rufus in MBR mode for legacy support, but it hasn't worked. I even tried Balena Etcher with the same results. I need help figuring out how to get Linux to work on this setup!
4 Answers
It sounds like you might be having issues with the partition table on your SSD. Even if you select MBR in Rufus, it may not affect the actual partition table used during installation. Try creating an MBR partition table and a root partition using GParted before rerunning the installer. There's an older guide linked here that might help you out: foxclone.org/downloads/20230509-LM21_legacy.pdf.
I never install Linux without first running it from a live USB. That way, I can confirm if it’s compatible with my hardware before going through the installation. Just boot from the USB and see if everything works well before you commit to installing it.
How do I check if it is compatible? Sorry if I sound dumb, I’m still new to Linux.
When I did my install, I used Ventoy with my BIOS set for a legacy installation. It went smoothly. If you’re still finding issues with Mint, consider trying Antix or Mint XFCE instead. They might work better for your setup.
Hey! I run an older Dell laptop with MX Linux and had similar issues. When you power up the laptop, try hitting Esc to access the boot menu and manually select your SSD drive. In your bio settings, make sure Secure Boot is disabled, and if possible, enable CSM (Compatibility Support Module). If your SSD isn't detected in BIOS, that could be the problem too. Also, it’s a good idea to verify your ISO to rule out a corrupt download.
Secure boot is disabled, and I also tried installing Linux Mint XFCE.
This actually worked, thanks so much!